Harlow Council has today announced that full redevelopment works will commence at Market House this month, marking a major step forward in the regeneration of Harlow town centre. The building will not be demolished, but rather transformed, alongside a new agreement that will deliver high-quality, flexible office space inside the building.
Market House has stood at the heart of Harlow for generations, but years of decline have left it empty and neglected. The council bought the building earlier this year and has been working to agree a deal for a new tenant of the office space as well as designs for its transformation which will reverse that picture – restoring a key landmark and signalling renewed confidence in Market Square and the wider town centre.
The external refurbishment will completely revitalise the building’s appearance, creating a striking, modern look that celebrates Harlow’s New Town heritage. This work forms a central part of the council’s wider programme to bring new life and activity back into Market Square, reshaping it into a more vibrant and welcoming destination.
A new deal agreed by the council will see the upper floors brought back into use as high-quality offices operated by leading flexible workspace provider Co-Space. This new business hub will support local entrepreneurs, growing companies and national firms, helping to create an environment where businesses can connect, innovate and thrive.
When Market House reopens next year, more than 300 jobs are expected to return to the town centre in a deal which will see significant revenue for the council. Combined with the wider multi-million-pound regeneration of Market Square – which will deliver new bars, restaurants, nightlife, market space and high-quality office space – the project represents a significant investment in the future of Harlow.
The wider transformation of Market Square is also progressing, with works on the main square itself due to begin imminently. Further announcements on Adams House and The Rows are expected shortly as the council accelerates its programme of town centre renewal.
The Market Square transformation is just one phase of the complete rebuilding of the town centre, with the transformation of Broad Walk nearing completion and major works in the Playhouse Quarter, Bus Station and Strawberry Star site underway.
Announcing the transformation, Councillor Dan Swords, Leader of Harlow Council, said:
“The transformation of Market House is a landmark moment for Harlow. For too long, it has stood as a symbol of decline at the heart of our town, now we are turning that around – creating a building that embodies renewal, ambition, and opportunity. But this is not just about one building; transforming Market House, and the wider Market Square, shows that we are not just promising to rebuild the town centre – we are delivering it.
“With construction starting this month and a high-quality operator secured, Market House will reopen next year, bringing people together, supporting new ideas, and creating opportunities for businesses to thrive. Be in no doubt, these works will radically change the northern end of the town centre and in a way that does not mean years of broken promises and disruption.
“In a matter of months, residents will be once again proud of the northern end of the town centre. That is what Building Harlow’s Future means and today is a shining example of the fact we are delivering on our promises.”
William Stokes, CEO and Co-founder of Co-Space, added:
“We’re excited to partner with Harlow Council to bring Co-Space to the area. The vision for Harlow aligns with the ethos of Co-Space, and we’re excited to be working hard alongside local parties to support not only the redevelopment efforts of the wider area, but also the wider business network, by bringing Harlow’s first with design-led workspace.”